Bulverde Police Department deserves residents' praise

By Bill Krawietz, Guest Columnist :
September 18, 2013

Tuesday, Oct. 1, is National Night Out. This is an event encouraging neighbors to get together. The whole intent is to make neighborhoods safer.

The Bulverde Police Department tries to visit every registered event in the city. They share information and, as a bonus, hand out goodie bags.

To register your event — no matter how large or small — just call City Hall and ask for Mary Bell.

One of the most valuable benefits to living within the city limits of Bulverde is our police department. We have one of the finest around.

We keep our pay competitive and, as a result, wind up with the “cream of the crop,” so to speak.

Turnover in the department is minimal, and when a vacancy does occur, the number of resumes we receive to fill the position is outstanding.

Some may say that Bulverde acts as a speed trap. I disagree.

Yes, traffic stops are numerous, but the average ticket is for exceeding the speed limit by 18 mph. If you are going that fast, you deserve a ticket.

Traffic stops are also responsible for numerous arrests on warrants and DUIs.

Controlling the speed in certain areas such as Hwy. 46 has also kept the number of accidents in check despite an increase in traffic in our area. It truly is a safety issue.

There is one area that bragging on our police department is most justified: They solve quite a few cases.

In Bulverde every case is taken seriously and it is seen in the statistics. In most cities these days, a vehicle break-in does not even justify a visit from an officer. They just give you a case number over the phone for insurance claim purposes.

Citizen involvement is more valuable than most would think. Know your neighbors' cars and be aware of your surroundings. If something doesn't look right, report it. We encourage it.

For non-emergencies, tips and such during normal business hours call City Hall at 830-438-3612 or, for after hours and weekends, the Comal County dispatcher at 830-620-3408. For an emergency, always call 911.